RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING (RPL)

Recognition through work experience, education, training and life experiences
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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

 


Recognition of Prior Learning, also known as RPL, is the recognition given to the knowledge and skills a student has acquired through work experience, education, training, and life experiences.

The Recognition of Prior Learning process involves matching the student’s knowledge and skills to the learning outcomes of nationally recognised courses to determine if the student should be given credit for specific modules.

BTA acknowledges that relevant knowledge and skills can be acquired through a variety of means, not just through formal education and training.

What are the benefits of RPL?

 


You can gain your qualification in a reduced amount of time; dependent on how much knowledge and skills already held.

Any credit given to you through the Recognition of Prior Learning process can be recognised by employers to assist with your career progression; and Complete via RPL units / qualifications required for trade contractor’s licences.  

STEPS IN THE RPL PROCESS

 


 

Step 1 – Provide information of your skills and experience

Complete the application forms and provide as much information of your previous experience in the construction industry as you can. This is your first opportunity (and not the last) to provide proof of your variety of experience in the industry. Here you can supply examples of your work history which could include:  


 

General employment documents

  • Brief CV or work history
  • Position descriptions
  • Certificates/results of assessment
  • Details of in-house courses, workshops, seminars, orientation or induction sessions
  • References/letters from previous employers/supervisors

Work place documents

    • Any licence
    • Brief CV or work history
    • Certificates/results of assessment
    • Indentures/trade papers
    • Certificates/results of assessment – interstate/overseas
    • Certificates/results of assessment – universities
    • Tickets held eg forklift, crane, etc.
    • Photographs of work undertaken
    • Diaries/task sheets/job sheets/log books
    • Site training records
    • Site competencies held record
    • Membership of relevant professional associations
    • Hobbies/interests/special skills outside work
    • References/letters from previous employers/supervisors
    • Industry awards

 

Any other documentation that may demonstrate industry experience
Depending on the industry you have worked in, you may or may not have documentary evidence available. This should not deter you from seeking RPL as the Assessor will work with you during the RPL process.

You will also need to supply contact details of one or two work referees who can confirm your skills in the industry.

Step 2 – Conversation with Assessor

 


An assessor will review the information you have provided (usually with you) and begin to match up your skills to the units/subjects in the qualification. At this point, you will have the opportunity to discuss and identify your previous experience with the assessor who will understand your industry experience and conduct a competency conversation with you. You will be required to answer construction industry related questions to identify your current skills.

Step 3 – Practical demonstration of your skills

 


The assessor will conduct a practical skills test at your workplace (if appropriate) or at another suitable venue. This, again, is an opportunity to demonstrate your level of competence. This assessment will be focussed on skills that are required in the qualification. Your assessor will identify the skills that he/she will want you to demonstrate. The assessors
may requires additional evidence ie. (photographs/videos) to be submitted if competency not met. 

Further steps

 


After the assessment, your assessor will give you information about the skills that have been recognised and whether you have gained the full qualification. If you do have skill gaps, these may be addressed through flexible training.

How to get a builder’s or contractor licence or registration

To work as a builder or trades person in Australia you must have a licence or be registered (depending on your state or territory). A licence or registration may require a combination of technical qualification, experience, skills and knowledge prior to application.

What Our Clients Say

"I applied for my RPL in Solid Plastering with Building Trades Australia in 2016. I found the process very informative and professional; my trainer Corey was very through ensuring I understood each unit and had the right knowledge & skill to achieve each module.

I appreciate the opportunity and guidance building trades Australia has given me to gain my qualifications and because of this subsidiary I received it as given as much needed head start to be able to choose as extra funds for tools and materials.

I would highly recommend building trades Australia for hassle free Avenue for gaining essential RPL"

Pati Pati

Solid Plastering, Pati Pati

"Thank you for all your help with skill assessment gap training programme after thinking I'm working doing a trade qualified job for years now why not find out gap training that I found Mandy from BTA who helped me through the whole process.
I've benefited from the programme by recognising my skill level and safety knowledge.

Straight away I've improved my trade due to my positive attitude that comes from having recognition in Cert 3 qualification

Darren Parker

Painting & Decorating, Darren Parker